September 07, (THEWILL) — The Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Akwa Ibom State Council, Comrade Nsibiet John, has commended the Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, for what he described as a professional and proactive approach to security management in the state.
Comrade John gave the commendation during a courtesy visit to the Police Commissioner at the State Command Headquarters, Ikot Akpanabia, Uyo, at the weekend.
Accompanied by members of the State Working Committee, the NUJ boss said the visit was to formally introduce the new leadership of the union and to reaffirm the long-standing collaboration between journalists and the Police in Akwa Ibom.
He described both institutions as partners in progress, particularly in the maintenance of law and order, as well as the protection of lives and property.
While applauding CP Azare’s “touch of professionalism” and noting a drop in reported security incidents across the state, Comrade John urged the Police Command to step up patrols around the NUJ secretariat on Information Drive, Uyo, where recent cases of criminal activity had been recorded.
“We are happy to be here on this visit. I must commend you, Sir, for your professionalism in handling your job. We came here to strengthen the synergy between the Police and the media because we are partners in progress committed to the protection of lives and property in the state”, he said.
The NUJ Chairman also thanked the Police for several interventions in matters affecting journalists, describing such gestures as evidence of the Command’s responsiveness to the safety of media practitioners.
In his response, CP Azare congratulated the new NUJ leadership and acknowledged the critical role of the media in the fight against crime. He urged journalists to remain committed to fairness and balance in their reportage while paying closer attention to detail.
He further encouraged media professionals to acquaint themselves with the provisions of the Cybercrimes Act as amended, noting that the evolving nature of digital journalism demands greater responsibility.
The Police Commissioner assured that the alliance with the media would be sustained, stressing that the Command’s Public Relations Department remains proactive in attending to distress calls.
The high point of the visit was the presentation of a plaque to the NUJ Chairman by the Police Commissioner.
Those who accompanied Comrade Nsibiet John on the visit included the State Secretary, Mr Nsikak Esenowo; Treasurer, Comrade Udeme Hosea; Assistant Secretary, Comrade Uduak Akai; Auditor, Comrade Dianime Uko; Chairman of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria, Comrade Emmanuel Akpan; and Chairman of the State Information Chapel, Comrade Edifon Solomon.
